From Our Correspondent
National Orientation Agency, NOA, has commenced campaign on the causes and prevention of diphtheria in communities in Ebonyi State.
The campaign followed an outbreak of the disease in some states in the South Eastern part of the country.
Speaking to newsmen in Abakiliki on Monday, the NOA State Director, Mr Theophilus Nwokpor said the campaign became necessary in order to save lives.
Nwokpor hinted that the disease had earlier been reported in some communities in the neighbouring states of Abia, Enugu and Imo.
He said the agency had mapped out strategies to enlighten people at the hinterland and the general public on preventive measures against the disease.
The director noted that there is no recorded case of the disease in the state presently.
“The campaign aims to raise awareness and promote preventive measures like vaccination, as well as hygiene practices.
“Recently, there was a rumour of an outbreak of diphtheria in some of our neighbouring states; hence the need to enlighten our people on the disease.
“We are also enlightening them on the causes, symptoms, prevention and what is expected of them if they suspect that they have the disease,” Nwokpor said.
The director explained that diphtheria is a serious infection, which produces a toxin that damages tissues.
“It is caused by bacteria and typically affects the nose, throat and sometimes the skin causing a thick, gray membrane and it is highly contagious.
“The disease is primarily spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, but can also spread via contact with open sores or contaminated objects with the bacteria,” he said.
Nwokpor added that some of the symptoms include sore throat, difficulty in breathing or swallowing, fever and chills.
“Other symptoms are swollen glands in the neck, a thick gray membrane in the throat and in some cases skin ulcers,” he added.
The director said those at risk are unvaccinated children and adults, especially those in close contact with infected persons and people living in crowded or unhygienic conditions.
“The most effective way to prevent diphtheria is through vaccination. Pentavalent vaccine for infants (includes diphtheria prevention) and booster dose for adolescents and adults are also helpful.
“The best way to prevent it is ensuring complete immunisation for children.
“In case anyone suspects diphtheria, seek medical attention immediately because it can be treated if detected early.
“Let us ensure that our children are fully immunised to prevent diphtheria and other diseases. Parents and guardians owe humanity full protection of children including complete immunisation,” he stated.
He added that NOA’s Community Orientation and Mobilisation Officers, COMOs, in the 13 local government areas and development centres had commenced campaign against the disease.
